Castle changes welcomed

Lagan Valley Conservatives have welcomed the decision to allow Historic Royal Palaces to take over the running of Hillsborough Castle although they remain concerned about the traffic implications.

Conservative Chairman, Neil Johnston said: “Hillsborough Castle was used as the private weekend holiday home for New Labour and their cronies. The Secretary of State is to be commended for opening this tremendous public asset to a wider audience.”

Mr Johnston said the running of the Castle was costing taxpayers £1.5m per year.

He said: “With the experience of Historic Royal Palaces the Castle, and the under used Fort and Courthouse, can help draw visitors and tourists to the village. The Castle can then pay for its own upkeep and create new jobs.”